NHL Trade Rumors: Blackhawks Could Move Defenseman

Wednesday, September 03, 2025
Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Wyatt Kaiser skates with the puck during 2025 game.

Training camp is almost here and the Chicago Blackhawks still have Wyatt Kaiser unsigned. 

That alone would be a talking point, but the bigger story is the crowd around him. Multiple insiders have noted the Blackhawks could have nine or ten NHL-ready defensemen pushing for jobs. That kind of squeeze usually ends one way: someone gets moved.

Where Kaiser fits and why the holdup matters

Kaiser is expected to sign, and the sense around the league is that money is not the sticking point. It sounds like term and timing. Chicago wants flexibility while it sorts out which kids truly seize top-four roles. Kaiser, 23, showed growth last season and can slide up and down pairings, but he is one of several young left shots vying for minutes.

The names to watch if Chicago deals from strength

This young group includes Kaiser, Alex Vlasic, Artyom Levshunov, Sam Rinzel, Kevin Korchinski, Louis Crevier, and Nolan Allan. Several are waiver-exempt, which gives the front office options to paper players down, but only for so long. 

If Chicago decides to turn surplus into scoring help, a controllable young D is exactly the type of chip that draws calls. Insiders have stressed they do not expect Kaiser to be the one dangled, yet the math suggests at least one youthful blueliner could be available if the right forward comes back.

Veteran alternative: Connor Murphy

There is also a path that avoids touching the prospect pool. Connor Murphy is entering his walk year with a reasonable cap hit and a limited no-trade list. If Chicago prefers to keep the kids together, moving a veteran on an expiring deal could clear a roster spot while adding a future asset.

Kyle Davidson has been disciplined about letting the kids take over, but too many defensemen and not enough NHL seats is a real puzzle.

Photo Credit: Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | MLB Rumors